Composer

:

Wolfgang Rihm

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Passion

Compose Date

:

1999 - 2000

First Performance

:

Aug 29, 2000

Average_duration

:

90:12

DEUS PASSUS (St. Luke Passion) is a choral work composed by Wolfgang Rihm in 1999. It premiered on March 18, 2000, at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, performed by the Gürzenich Orchestra and the WDR Radio Choir Cologne, conducted by Markus Stenz. The work is divided into two parts, each consisting of several movements. The first part depicts the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus, while the second part focuses on the crucifixion itself. The text is based on the Gospel of St. Luke, as well as other biblical and liturgical texts. The music of DEUS PASSUS is characterized by its intense emotional expression and its use of dissonance and chromaticism. The choral writing is often dense and complex, with overlapping lines and intricate harmonies. The orchestra is used to create a rich and varied sound world, with a wide range of colors and textures. The first part of the work begins with an instrumental prelude, followed by a choral movement that sets the stage for the narrative to come. The subsequent movements depict various episodes from the Gospel, including the Last Supper, the betrayal of Jesus by Judas, and his arrest and trial before the high priest. The music is often turbulent and dramatic, reflecting the emotional intensity of the events being depicted. The second part of the work begins with a choral movement that sets the scene at Golgotha, where Jesus is crucified. The subsequent movements depict the crucifixion itself, as well as the death and burial of Jesus. The music is often somber and mournful, with moments of intense emotional expression. Overall, DEUS PASSUS is a powerful and deeply moving work that explores the themes of suffering, redemption, and transcendence. Its complex and challenging music demands a high level of skill and commitment from performers, but the result is a work of great beauty and emotional impact.

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